Device and method for storage and transfer of thermal energy originated from solar radiation based on fluidization of a bed of particles

Abstract

A device for storage and conveyance of thermal energy for an energy production system apt to receive solar radiation and based on the use of a modular fluidizable granular bed and a heat exchanger associated thereto is described.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application is the U.S. national stage entry of International Application PCT / IB2011 / 051769 filed on Apr. 22, 2011, which in turn claims priority to Italian Application RM2010A000203, filed on Apr. 29, 2010.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to a device for storage and transport of thermal energy, in particular of solar origin, preferably for a subsequent or concurrent use of the same for the production of electric energy.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]It is known to store solar energy, for subsequent use, concentrated by heliostats, fixed or tracking, within a receptor consisting of a block of material having a high thermal conductivity (typically graphite). Such block generally carries a suitably oriented cavity whereon said heliostats are directed. The receptor block, moreover, is typically associated to a heat exchanger having pipe bundles immersed in the same block and crossed by a working fluid—o...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is about a system that efficiently stores solar energy using a fluidizable granular bed that can also carry heat. The system has the benefits of thermal exchange and convective conveyance, allowing for better heat transfer. The granular bed can be controlled and selected for specific energy needs, and can also produce energy from gaseous fuel. The technical effects of this system include improved heat storage, reduced thermal stresses, increased heat exchange efficiency, and flexibility in energy production.

Problems solved by technology

In particular, in relation to the temperature difference between the incoming fluid and the exchanger pipes, the thermo-dynamic conditions of the fluid may change so quickly as to create strong stresses of the pipe metal (thermal and mechanical shocks), such as to subject the heat exchangers to extreme physical conditions, with the risk of excessive internal tensions and subsequent breakage.

Moreover, a difficulty of the systems described is to ensure continuity in the amount of heat removed by the accumulator, since the storage step is linked to the atmospheric conditions and to the day / night cycles.

Known systems therefore are little versatile in terms of capability of adaptation to the downstream energy requirements.

In general, moreover, known systems are not optimized in terms of usage efficiency and conversion of the incoming electric energy.

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